New Road Improves Access to 12,000 Acres in New Mexico

MISSOULA, Mont. — A new road is now in place and being used by elk hunters and others in northeast New Mexico thanks to funding provided by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Lineberry Foundation.

RMEF worked with the New Mexico State Land Office to improve vehicular access to approximately 6,000 acres and walk-in access to another 6,000 acres of State Trust Lands in the White Peak Area.

“This project eases the tension of a long-running dispute in Mora County over access into prime wildlife habitat,” said Blake Henning, RMEF chief conservation officer. “Not only is this mix of private and State Trust Lands key for elk but it’s also home to deer, turkey, bears, mountain lions and other species.”

RMEF provided nearly $20,000 in funding to blade the 2.5 mile road that ties into existing ranch roads and old logging roads within Game Management Unit 48 that improves access to Halls Peak, Cooks Peak and Gallinas Mesa. It is accessible off Mora County Road 10, commonly known as White Peak Road.

Additionally, RMEF paid for a 35-year right-of-way easement that blocks future land commissioners from closing the road through 2052.

The project also secures access to a primitive seven-acre campground open during hunting season solely to sportsmen and women with a valid license. RMEF volunteers also recently put in 40 hours of work to clear the campground with chainsaws, build an access gate and install a gap gate.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of more than 227,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 7.3 million acres for elk and other wildlife. RMEF also works to open and improve public access, fund and advocate for science-based resource management, and ensure the future of America’s hunting heritage. Discover why “Hunting Is Conservation™” at www.rmef.org, www.elknetwork.com or 800-CALL ELK. Take action: join and/or donate.